In a significant boost to regional connectivity, the much-anticipated Delhi–Saharanpur–Dehradun Expressway was thrown open for a trial run on Monday. This move marks a crucial step towards the full operationalization of the 213-kilometer corridor, which is set to dramatically transform travel between the national capital and the Uttarakhand capital.
A New Path to the Hills: Route and Time Savings
The new expressway promises to be a game-changer for commuters. The existing journey, which takes between six to six and a half hours via Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Roorkee, is projected to be slashed to approximately two to two and a half hours once the corridor is complete. The new alignment will offer a more direct path, connecting Delhi to Dehradun via Baghpat and Saharanpur.
Even on its first day of trial operations, users reported positive experiences. A motorist on the route shared his optimism, stating that the expressway would be a major relief from chronic traffic congestion and a significant time-saver. He expressed hope that the government would officially open it to the public at the earliest.
Final Stretch and Wildlife Corridor Progress
Officials indicated that the final 20-kilometer segment between Dehradun and Biharigarh in Saharanpur is nearing completion. This portion includes a 12-kilometer elevated road stretching from Asharodi to Ganeshpur. Vehicles are currently being permitted on this stretch on a trial basis to evaluate safety protocols and traffic management systems.
One of the most notable features of the project is the dedicated wildlife corridor passing through the ecologically sensitive Rajaji National Park and the Shivalik Reserve Forest. This section, historically a major bottleneck where travel could take 45 minutes to an hour due to heavy vehicle movement and wildlife considerations, is expected to see a drastic improvement. With the new elevated corridor functional, the same distance is anticipated to be covered in a mere 15 to 20 minutes.
Enhanced Connectivity and Future Impact
The opening of the Delhi–Saharanpur–Dehradun Expressway for trial runs represents more than just infrastructure development; it signifies a leap in economic and social connectivity for the region. By providing a faster, more reliable link, the expressway will facilitate:
- Faster movement of goods and people, boosting trade and tourism.
- Reduced pressure on the older, congested routes through Meerut and Muzaffarnagar.
- Improved access to Uttarakhand's hill stations and pilgrimage sites.
The successful assessment during this trial phase will pave the way for the corridor's full public opening, bringing the promise of a sub-three-hour Delhi-Dehradun journey closer to reality for millions of travelers.
